Accessibility and safer spaces

The Bookfair Collective is committed to making this event as accessible as possible. We recognize that society is marked by structural barriers that exclude and marginalize people on a daily basis, and we strive to create an inclusive event that does not replicate such barriers.

We are working towards this end by having:

a wheelchair accessible venue located close to public transit routes

gender neutral, single-occupancy bathrooms

ASL available upon request (please e-mail kwbookfair@gmail.com in advance)

free child care and family-oriented planning

active listeners available for emotional and/or trigger support and conflict intervention

free lunch and snacks that cater to a variety of dietary restrictions and allergies (ingredient lists included)

a designated Quiet Room with arts & crafts for anyone needing a break from the noise and bustle

a dedicated people of colour space, along with dedicated programming

free admission

free parking

Please note that members of law enforcement and their accomplices are not welcome at this event, however the Bookfair Collective cannot guarantee that they will not be present.

If you have any questions or additional accessibility requests, please let us know at kwbookfair@gmail.com. We have limited resources, but we will do our best to accommodate.

As organizers of this event, we will try to provide an environment free of harassment, discrimination, and oppression. We recognize that the accessibility of a space can be impacted by the behaviour of the people present in that space.

Please help us to create an inclusive and accessible space by:

Refraining from wearing strong scents or fragrances

Respecting the use of gender-neutral pronouns and checking in with people about how they identify (i.e she/he/they) before making assumptions

Being mindful that children may be present in workshops and throughout the day

Respecting each other’s boundaries and not making assumptions about anyone’s level of comfort with physical contact

Being conscious of the language you use and mindful that your behaviour and language impact other people

Being conscious of the space you occupy and take up at the event: consider if there are those in attendance who may need access to food earlier or specific types of food, or access to seating because they can’t stand for long periods of time

Being receptive if someone tells you that your behaviour or language is hurtful, inappropriate, problematic, etc.

Remembering that we cannot guarantee that members of law enforcement and/or their accomplices will not be present; refrain from saying anything that could incriminate yourself or anyone else.

Anyone acting in ways deemed inappropriate and/or unsafe by the Bookfair Collective may be required to leave the event.